Etienne Charles, born in 1983 in Trinidad and Tobago, is an acclaimed jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader known for his innovative blend of jazz with Caribbean musical traditions. A graduate of Florida State University and the Juilliard School, Charles has carved a unique space in the global music scene by fusing calypso, reggae, steelpan, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms with jazz, creating a vibrant and distinctive sound. His albums, such as "Creole Soul" and "Carnival: The Sound of a People," have received critical acclaim for their originality and cultural depth, earning him multiple accolades, including recognition from DownBeat magazine and the Guggenheim Foundation. Beyond his recordings, Charles is also a passionate educator and cultural ambassador, dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich musical heritage of his homeland while continuing to push the boundaries of jazz.